Be outspoken and overcome stigmatizing thoughts (BOOST): a group treatment for internalized stigma in first-episode psychosis

Michael W Best, Michael Grossman, Melissa Milanovic, Sean Renaud and Christopher R Bowie

Psychosis, 2018, vol. 10, issue 3, 187-197

Abstract: Background: Internalized stigma is associated with a broad array of negative outcomes for people experiencing psychosis. The current article provides an overview of a novel group-based intervention for reducing internalized stigma (Be Outspoken and Overcome Stigmatizing Thoughts [BOOST]) that combines cognitive behavioural techniques with peer support in first-episode psychosis.Methods: BOOST is an eight-session group intervention that combines cognitive restructuring, assertive communication skills and peer support. Results are presented from a small pilot non-controlled open-label study of 15 participants at an early intervention for psychosis programme.Results: Thirty-three percent of participants discontinued BOOST before completing the intervention. Those who completed BOOST experienced significantly improved internalized stigma (d = .76), self-esteem (d = 1.20) and satisfaction with life (d = 1.27).Conclusions: Results from this small pilot study suggest that BOOST is not only effective at improving internalized stigma, but also at improving self-esteem and satisfaction with life. Further evaluation of BOOST in a randomized controlled trial is ongoing, and further investigation of the role of combined peer support and cognitive behavioural intervention is warranted as a method of reducing internalized stigma.

Date: 2018
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DOI: 10.1080/17522439.2018.1472630

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